Trump, Poland, and the Importance of Patriotism

This Thursday, just two days after America celebrated its 241st Independence Day, President Trump spoke about another battle for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. In a powerful speech, the President reiterated the United States’ longtime support for the people of Poland, and renewed a call to preserve and defend Western values and society.

His speech read, in part:

You were supported in that victory over communism by a strong alliance of free nations in the West that defied tyranny. Now, among the most committed members of the NATO Alliance, Poland has resumed its place as a leading nation of a Europe that is strong, whole, and free.

A strong Poland is a blessing to the nations of Europe, and they know that. A strong Europe is a blessing to the West and to the world. One hundred years after the entry of American forces into World War I, the transatlantic bond between the United States and Europe is as strong as ever and maybe, in many ways, even stronger.

This continent no longer confronts the specter of communism. But today we’re in the West, and we have to say there are dire threats to our security and to our way of life. You see what’s happening out there. They are threats. We will confront them. We will win. But they are threats

Poles, perhaps as well as any other people, understand existential threats. Their singular history has taught them that Western society and their country’s unique way of life must be preserved. On a continent quickly spiraling toward self destruction, Poland’s troubled past may be just the thing to give Europe hope.

About The Author

Cristina is a grad student currently majoring in Strategic Communications at American University. She has worked in both state and presidential campaigns, and her areas of interest include politics, culture, writing, and advocacy.